Written by Anish MondalJanuary 4, 2026 01:57 PM IST 3 min readHowrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train: The much-awaited Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to begin its inaugural journey soon. This new semi-high-speed service will operate between Howrah and Guwahati. The new train will offer a major boost to regional tourism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off the Howrah–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train later this month.Also Read | In Photos | First look of Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper trainHowrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train: Travel timeThe Howrah–Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train will reduce travel time between the two cities by nearly three hours. At present, the Saraighat Express is the fastest train on this route, taking over 16 hours to cover the 966-km distance. With the introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper, the journey time is likely to be reduced to around 14 hours.Also Read | All states, including Kerala, to get Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: Ashwini VaishnawHowrah Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper speedDeveloped by BEML using ICF technology, the Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train will have a design speed of 180 kmph. This new train will run six days a week.On Saturday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be introduced across all states. The Union minister further said that the Vande Bharat Sleeper train will be introduced for overnight journeys of around 1,500 km.The Railway Minister also said that every aspect of passenger convenience –including comfort and safety – has been taken into account while designing. The train is equipped with CCTV cameras, the Kavach safety system, and other modern features.Also Read | Vande Bharat Sleeper trains to cover 1,000–1,500 km routes; 12 trains set for launch in 2026Vande Bharat Sleeper train featuresTotal coaches: 16 (11 coaches 3 Tier; 4 coaches 2 Tier; 1 coach 1AC)Passenger capacity: 823 (3T: 611 + 2T:188 + 1st AC:24)Semi-high-speed train with design speed up to 180 kmphErgonomically designed berths with improved cushioningAlso Read | Howrah-Guwahati Vande Bharat Sleeper train: Check launch date, route, stoppages, ticket price, food menuAutomatic doors with vestibules for smooth movementEnhanced ride comfort with superior suspension and noise reductionKavach & Emergency talk-back systemDisinfectent technology to maintain high sanitationDriver cab with advanced controls and safety systemsAerodynamic exterior looks & Automatic exterior passenger doorsAnish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd